Balance valves - worth it?

I have hydronic baseboard heat with a 4 zone system. Is it worthwhile to install balance valves (I'm looking at Taco valves ~$45 each)? It's my understanding that adjusting them is not a DIY project due to the equipment needed.

Balance valves - worth it?

Joe:

Basically, a balancing valve is used in single zone heating systems so that each radiator loop offers the same resistance to flow so that you get uniform heat distribution throughout the building. You normally wouldn't use a balancing valve in a radiator loop with a zone valve.

Also, if it wuz me, I would spend a bit more and get better zone valves. I'm sure Taco zone valves work, but they're just plain hard to figure out how to wire them together and to the heating system and such. Take a look at the Honeywell V8043 series of valves; they come with and without end switches and you can buy replacement actuators and motors for them.

I'm not sure if I answered your question. On a zoned heating system, the zone valve opens to provide hot water flow into the radiators in that zone. You wouldn't normally ALSO install balancing valves on the radiator train in that zone.

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